Over 30% of Americans suffer from bunions, a painful foot deformity that can affect daily life and mobility. Traditional treatments often require long recovery times, but minimally invasive surgery is making it easier for patients to get back on their feet quickly.
At Choice Podiatry Center, we provide advanced foot and ankle care in Georgia. Dr. Vivian C. lwu focuses on minimally invasive treatments to relieve pain, correct deformities, and improve foot health. Struggling with bunions or other foot issues? Contact us today to schedule your appointment and take the first step toward healthier feet.
Minimally invasive surgery is revolutionizing bunion treatment—here’s how it works.
What is a Bunion?
A bunion is a bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of your big toe, also known as the first metatarsal bone. This occurs when the big toe, or hallux valgus, pushes against the second toe, causing the joint to stick out. Over time, this misalignment can result in a hallux valgus deformity. Bunions can cause bunion pain, swelling, and difficulty wearing shoes, especially narrow shoes or those with a pointed toe box.
How To Diagnose Bunion Symptoms
Bunion Symptoms
- Bunion pain and tenderness around the big toe joint
- Swelling and redness in the affected area, sometimes accompanied by a fluid-filled sac
- A noticeable bunion deformity or bump on the side of the foot
- Restricted movement of the big toe, affecting its normal position
- Trouble wearing shoes, especially pointed shoes or those with a narrow toe box
- Difficulty walking or trouble walking due to discomfort
To diagnose bunion symptoms, your healthcare provider will conduct a physical exam. They may check for signs like a visible bump, swelling, or a misaligned hallux valgus angle. If your symptoms become worse or persist, they may suggest imaging tests or other treatments.
How To Prevent Bunions?
To prevent bunions from forming, wear proper shoes with a wide and comfortable toe box that allows your toes to spread naturally. Avoid narrow shoes, pointed shoes, or high heels that put pressure on the metatarsal bone. Wearing wider shoes and using orthotic devices such as shoe inserts, toe spacers, and bunion pads can help alleviate pressure on the metatarsal head and reduce the risk of developing severe foot problems.
Maintaining good foot mechanics through exercises and stretches can also prevent bunions. For individuals with early signs of hallux valgus, these steps can help slow its progression. If bunions develop, treatment options range from non-surgical measures like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for reducing pain and swelling, to surgical interventions for more severe cases.
Minimally Invasive Bunion Surgery vs. Traditional Surgery
Key Differences Between Minimally Invasive and Traditional Bunion Surgery
Incision Size
- Minimally Invasive Surgery: Uses tiny incisions (2-3 millimeters), which minimizes scarring and supports faster healing.
- Traditional Surgery: Requires larger cuts (several centimeters), leading to more prominent scars and longer recovery times.
Surgical Techniques
- Minimally Invasive Surgery: Relies on precise tools and advanced methods, addressing hallux valgus deformity with minimal disruption to surrounding tissues.
- Traditional Surgery: Involves manual techniques, often causing more extensive trauma to the soft tissues and metatarsal head.
Advancements in Podiatric Care
- Minimally Invasive Surgery: Represents a modern approach to fixing bunion deformity, offering faster recovery, less bunion pain, and fewer complications.
- Traditional Surgery: While effective, it typically involves a longer rehabilitation process and higher likelihood of rare complications.
Minimally invasive methods are reshaping how we treat hallux valgus deformity, offering patients a faster, less invasive option for achieving proper foot alignment.
Ideal Candidates for Minimally Invasive Surgery
This procedure is best suited for patients with mild to moderate bunion deformity or hallux valgus. Ideal candidates are in good health, have no severe foot injuries, and are looking for minimal scarring and quicker recovery. Adolescent hallux valgus patients or individuals with rheumatoid arthritis may also benefit from surgical evaluation.
Post-Surgery Recovery and Results
Tips for a Smooth Recovery
- Follow post-op care instructions provided by your ankle surgeon.
- Elevate your foot to reduce swelling and ease discomfort.
- Apply ice packs as directed to manage pain from the hallux valgus deformity.
- Avoid putting weight on your foot until cleared by your doctor.
- Use shoe inserts or orthotic devices when transitioning back to wearing shoes.
Long-Term Benefits of Minimally Invasive Bunion Correction
- Smaller scars and a restored normal position for the big toe.
- Faster recovery compared to traditional surgery.
- Improved alignment of the first metatarsal bone, reducing the risk of other toes being affected or toes rubbing together.
- Enhanced mobility and reduced bunion pain during everyday activities.
- Better quality of life, allowing you to choose shoes comfortably without worrying about foot problems.
For those struggling with bunions that happen in daily life, difficulty walking, or finding comfortable shoes, minimally invasive surgery offers a modern, effective solution. It can correct bunions, address issues with the little toe or smaller toes, and restore foot function.
If your symptoms worsen, consider this option to improve mobility and avoid discomfort caused by wearing improper footwear. Remember to avoid shoes that put pressure on your longest toe to prevent further complications.
Patient Testimonial
Deidre's Pain-Free Journey
A year after surgery, Deidre is thrilled with her bunion removal results. After years of left foot pain, Dr. Vivian’s care brought her relief. Amazingly, she was able to attend a friend’s birthday party the day after surgery! Now pain-free, she highly recommends Choice Podiatry in Marietta, GA. Thank you, Dr. Vivian, for changing lives!
Why Choose Choice Podiatry Center?
At Choice Podiatry Center, we specialize in advanced, minimally invasive techniques to treat severe bunions and help those who develop bunions find relief. If your symptoms worsen, our team can assess your condition and suggest surgery if necessary. We are dedicated to providing cutting-edge treatments tailored to your unique needs for faster recovery and less discomfort.
Begin Your Journey to Improved Foot Health with Nonsurgical Treatment
Healthy, pain-free feet are achievable with the personalized, advanced care offered at Choice Podiatry Center. Dr. Iwu is here to help you get back to living comfortably.
Contact Choice Podiatry Center now and explore our expert podiatry services. Don’t wait—schedule your appointment today and take the first step toward pain-free living!
